About the Texas State Railroad:
The Texas State Railroad is an excursion train operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Deparment in East Texas.

The note above about the physical address is because the train runs between two terminals, one in Palestine and one in Rusk, with the terminals in each town making up the Texas State Railroad State Park.

There are actually two trains, the East Bound and West Bound, and they pass each other daily in the middle of the trip. The Texas State Railroad route is 25.5 miles one way, a trip of about 90 minutes; and 50 miles round-trip that takes about four hours. Passengers may board in either Palestine or Rusk. When they reach the other end of the line, passengers can have lunch, ride paddle boats or take a short nature hike during the 1-hour "layover." Passengers then reboard for the return trip home. The train ride itself is through dense East Texas woodlands.

The Texas State Railroad consists of four steam engines, four antique diesel locomotives, antique cars, and a complete steam engine restoration shop; while its track crew maintains over 25 miles of track and 24 bridges. One of those trestles is across the Neches River and is more than 1,000 feet in length.

Be sure to check the train schedule on the Texas State Railroad Web site before making plans. Days and times of excursions take place at varying times throughout the year, and there are also blackout times when the trains don't run. Regular seating and climate controlled seating are available. Check the fees on the Website.